The report was one of several on the place of women in the workplace published ahead of tomorrow’s International Women’s Day.

A second report published today revealed an increasing number of firms expect to hire more mothers in the next two years in recognition of their skills and experience.

The survey of 2,200 businesses by workplace provider Regus also found a growing trend of women not taking up their full maternity leave entitlement.

One in four of those polled said more women were taking less than three months off work after having a child.

Most of those questioned reported that more women were demanding to work remotely when they returned to their job.

However the prospects for women in the workplace may not be as satisfactory for those closer to retirement, another survey found.

Women are working longer but are dogged by low pay and poor career prospects, the study by Unison revealed.

It found increasing numbers of women are working over the age of 60 with few options available for flexible working.

Many are now having to remain in full-time employment beyond the age of 64 when they should be winding down and looking forward to retirement, the Union said.

Time for change: The CMI called for a role model 'revolution' after revealing the findings of its survey

Unison's assistant general secretary Karen Jennings said: ‘The world of work for women over the age of 50 is changing dramatically.

‘Many older women suddenly find they have to work years longer than they expected. Rapid rises in the state pension age, the Government's austerity agenda and the disproportionate impact it has on women have combined to force the change.’

Unison said women should have better promotion prospects and improved pay and training if they are expected to work longer.

The CMI research also found that only half of those polled could identify a good role model in their organisation.

Alternatives: Carolyn McCall and Karren Brady were two of the women put forward by the CMI as role models

Chief executive Ann Francke said it’s time we redefined and rejuvenated what we think of as an inspiring person.

‘Without accessible, inspiring women highlighted in the public eye, it’s no surprise we’re lacking a pipeline of talented women aiming for top jobs,’ she said.

‘Women are opting not to go for these roles because they’re put off by business culture and wider social attitudes that are still predominantly geared to making men successful but alienate women.

‘If men in our workplaces are inherently biased towards taking their lead from the men in their lives rather than the women, it's unlikely they're championing and nurturing their female and male employees equally.’

Minister for Women and Equalities Jenny Willott said: ‘We know there are exceptional women out there whose achievements and approach to life could help guide other women to realise their full potential.

‘We should be encouraging more women to become role models by sharing lessons about how they got where they are and how other women can succeed in the workplace. We want more inclusive workplaces where women are encouraged and supported to achieve the very best they can - this work is crucial if we are to build a stronger economy and a fairer society.’

The CMI revealed the winners of its role model survey - and suggested some alternatives (Source: CMI)